Thursday, June 2, 2016

Compass South (book #1) by Hope Larson -ADVISABLE

Larson, Hope Compass South (book #1) Farrar Straus, 2016. $17.99 GRAPHIC NOVEL Content: Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: PG(Chaste Kisses, Crushes) Violence: PG (Pirate attack)
Cleopatra and Alexander are 12 year old twins living in New York City in the 1800s. When we meet them they are homeless and have fallen in with a street gang to survive. After getting caught and cutting a deal, they end up chasing a reward for some lost twins that aren’t them. But along the way they bump into a similar pair of twins looking to cash in on the same reward. When one twin from each set end up shanghaied on ship heading to San Fran via Cape horn, the other pair try to follow. Each pair has their own set of adventures including jungle escapes, pirates, and a figure from the past who thinks the twins have treasure map, which just maybe they do.
This graphic novel features awesome illustrations which have an anime feel. Its fast paced, adventurous and an incredibly fun read with a multifaceted plot. The double twin plot component can get a bit confusing, especially when the original pair changes their names to go into hiding. Many of the illustrations are quite small, so it would be nice if they were easier to tell apart. I can’t wait to read the second book! Upper elementary and middle school because of the violence level.
EL, MS – ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.

No comments: